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Questions and Answers
What type of bacteria was Alexander Fleming researching when he discovered penicillin?
What type of bacteria was Alexander Fleming researching when he discovered penicillin?
What observation did Fleming make that led him to investigate the mold in his petri dish?
What observation did Fleming make that led him to investigate the mold in his petri dish?
What was the substance produced by the mold that inhibited the growth of bacteria?
What was the substance produced by the mold that inhibited the growth of bacteria?
What is one characteristic of Fleming's work habits that contributed to his discovery of penicillin?
What is one characteristic of Fleming's work habits that contributed to his discovery of penicillin?
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Approximately how many penicillin prescriptions are written each year in the U.S. alone?
Approximately how many penicillin prescriptions are written each year in the U.S. alone?
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Study Notes
Fleming's Accidental Discovery of Penicillin
- In 1928, Alexander Fleming, a Scottish scientist, was studying staphylococcus bacteria.
- Fleming's lab work was messy and he left bacterial cultures unattended during a vacation.
- Mold grew in the bacterial cultures.
- Fleming noticed that the area surrounding the mold was free of bacteria.
- He observed this under a microscope.
- The mold had apparently killed the bacteria.
- This accidental discovery led to the development of penicillin.
- Penicillin is the first antibiotic.
- Today, penicillin is a life-saving drug used worldwide.
- Over 80 million prescriptions for penicillin are written in the U.S. alone each year.
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Description
Explore the accidental discovery of penicillin by Alexander Fleming in 1928. This quiz covers the unexpected findings from his lab that led to the development of the first antibiotic, which has saved countless lives. Test your knowledge of Fleming's contributions to medicine and the impact of penicillin on healthcare.
